Caribbean Netherlands Public Holidays 2025
Caribbean Netherlands has 9 public holidays and 4 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 27 Apr | Sun | Kings Day | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 11 May | Sun | Mother's Day | observance |
| 29 May | Thu | Ascension Day | public |
| 15 Jun | Sun | Father's Day | observance |
| 5 Dec | Fri | St. Nicholas' Eve | observance |
| 15 Dec | Mon | Kingdom Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About Caribbean Netherlands's Holidays
Caribbean Netherlands follows Dutch national holidays like King’s Day and Liberation Day alongside common public holidays such as New Year, Easter, and Christmas. These are observed across Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
Religious and civic holidays close schools and government offices. Local adaptations blend Dutch and Caribbean styles, so celebrations feel different from the European Netherlands.
Cultural life centers on island festivals and community days. Think Carnival events, music and dance, and island days such as Rincon Day in Bonaire, Saba Day, and Statia Day in Sint Eustatius.
These local holidays are the biggest times for parades, food, and family gatherings. They show a mix of Dutch, Afro Caribbean, and indigenous influences in the islands.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in the Caribbean Netherlands are lively and full of color. People decorate homes and streets with flags, flowers, and lights. Music plays everywhere, from parang to local steelpan and drums, making a joyful beat for dancing.
Family is central. Relatives gather to share stories, play games, and remember ancestors. Children often get treats and small gifts. Respect for elders and community prayers are common, mixing Christian and local island traditions in warm, friendly ways.
Food brings everyone together. Big meals include roast meats, seafood, rice dishes, stews, and sweet desserts made from local fruits. Public celebrations have parades, carnival style costumes, food stalls, and open air concerts that welcome all ages.
Travel Tips
The Caribbean Netherlands includes Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. During the holiday season some government offices, banks, shops, and clinics may close or have shorter hours. Tourist services may also change their schedules.
Ferries and inter island flights can be limited or fill up fast. Book boats and planes early. Taxis may be harder to find on busy days so arrange transfers ahead when possible.
Be ready for crowded beaches, restaurants, and popular tours around major holidays and long weekends. Prices for lodging can go up. Bring sun protection and light rain gear during brief showers.
Carry cash as small businesses may not take cards. Keep copies of important documents. Check local island websites for holiday hours before you go.